No-Bake Banana Split Pie

Banana Split Pie is a delightful no-bake dessert that is the perfect treat on a hot summer day!

This simple recipe features a creamy filling nested in a pre-made graham cracker crust, topped with banana slices, crushed pineapple, and heaps of fluffy whipped cream. Complete with a drizzle of rich chocolate sauce, a sprinkle of nuts, and the iconic touch of maraschino cherries.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe requires no baking, making it a convenient option for those who want a delicious dessert without the hassle of turning on the oven. The use of a pre-made graham cracker pie crust also saves time and effort.

Classic Flavors: The combination of creamy filling, a layer of bananas, crushed pineapple, and whipped cream captures the classic flavors of a traditional banana split, evoking a sense of nostalgia and familiarity. It's a delightful way to enjoy a family favorite dessert in a new and exciting form.

Perfect for Summer: This is the perfect dessert for hot summer days. The cool creaminess and fruity elements make it a refreshing and satisfying dessert option for picnics, barbecues, or any summer gathering.

Key Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crust - This recipe calls for pre-made store-bought crust in order to save time and effort. The ingredients and directions for making a homemade graham cracker crust are provided in the recipe notes, in case you prefer to make your own.

Cream Cheese - Soften your cream cheese to room temperature before preparing this recipe. This will allow it to blend with the other ingredients so the filling is smooth.

Bananas - Use ripe bananas that are just starting to get a few black spots. These bananas are sweet while still being firm enough to hold up in the pie.

Pineapple - Drain the juice or syrup completely. If too much liquid is left behind it will make your pie soggy.

Whipped Cream - I think homemade whipped cream tastes best, so I recommend making this stabilized cream recipe, but you can also use store-bought whipped topping that has been thawed completely.

Chocolate Sauce - Thin chocolate syrup that comes in a squeeze bottle will quickly soak into the whipped cream. Hot fudge sauce lasts the longest and has a more chocolatey flavor.

Chopped Nuts - I used a package of chopped dessert topping nuts, which is a combination of a variety of nuts. I like this because it has consistently sized pieces. You can use your favorite type of chopped nuts.

You can add your favorite banana split toppings too, like marshmallow cream, caramel sauce, or strawberry topping!

How to Make Banana Split Pie

1) Prepare Filling

• Place the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl.
• Beat on high speed for 2 minutes using an electric mixer. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
• Spread the cream cheese mixture on top of the crust.

2) Slice the Bananas

• Cut the bananas about ¼-inch thick.
• If you are making this in advance then soak the bananas in some lemon juice, pineapple juice, or lemon-lime soda. Pat dry before placing on the pie.
• Place the bananas across the cream cheese layer.

3) Add Pineapple

• Make sure the pineapple is completely drained.
• Spoon the crushed fruit in an even layer over the sliced bananas.

4) Top with Whipped Cream

• Spread the whipped cream or Cool Whip on top of the pineapple.
• Use a large spoon to create divots on the top of the whipped cream for a decorative touch.
• If you are not serving this dessert immediately, place it in the refrigerator.

5) Add Toppings

• Just before serving, warm the chocolate sauce in the microwave in 30-second increments until it is pourable.
• Pour some sauce into a plastic sandwich bag and snip the tip off of the bag.
• Squeeze the sauce out of the bag in a zig-zag pattern across the top of the whipped cream.
• Sprinkle nuts evenly over the chocolate.
• Add maraschino cherries in rows across the top of the pie.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Lover's Twist: For a chocolatey twist, add ⅓ cup of chocolate chips to the cream cheese filling. This adds a little crunch as well as an indulgent flavor.
• Strawberry Delight: Incorporate the taste of fresh strawberries by adding 1 cup of sliced strawberries on top of the bananas. 
• Creamy Pudding: Add one package of instant banana pudding along with 2 tablespoons of milk to the filling mixture for added flavor and thickness. You can also use vanilla pudding mix.
• Tropical Paradise: Take the tropical vibes up a notch by adding ½ cup of shredded coconut to the cream cheese filling. The coconut will lend a tropical aroma and a hint of sweetness to the pie.
• Caramel Bliss: Elevate the dessert with a drizzle of caramel sauce over the whipped cream. The caramel's smooth and buttery notes will add an irresistible sweetness to the pie.
• Cookie Crumble: Use an Oreo crust instead of a graham cracker crust, and top the pie with crushed cookie crumbs.

Make-Ahead and Storage 

No-Bake Banana Split Pie can be made several hours in advance. While it can be served immediately, additional time in the refrigerator allows time for the filling to be fully set. 

I recommend serving this dessert within 24 hours of preparing, as the bananas will brown and get mushy over time. Keep the pie in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve it.

Leftovers should be wrapped with plastic wrap and returned to the refrigerator. Enjoy them within 3 days.

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